The University of Hong Kong, a world-class comprehensive research institution, launched its centenary celebrations on Sunday, marking the start of a series of events for the territory's oldest university's 100-year anniversary.

In the day, over 4,000 students, staff members, alumni and residents from the neighborhood joined the kick-off ceremony, witnessing a parade and carnival activities showcasing the diversity of the university, whose motto is "wisdom and virtue".

The celebration events will last for two years, said the HKU.

Founded in 1911, HKU ranked first in Asia and 21st in the world in the 2010-11 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.